Lack of affordable housing is a leading cause of housing instability and homelessness, which may negatively affect physical health and make it harder to access health care. Households with high housing costs may be challenged to afford other necessities, like food, transportation, and health care. Without affordable housing options, older adults may be forced to rent substandard housing that exposes them to safety risks.

A mix of federal, state, and local programs provide rental assistance and subsidized housing options. However, funds for these programs are limited and demand is high, leading to long wait lists.

This indicator measures the number of subsidized housing units per 10,000 people in California (not limited to older adults), as compiled by the AARP Public Policy Institute. Increasing this number will expand affordable housing options. Check out the Housing for All Ages and Stages Goal Page to explore dynamic visualizations and view more detailed data related to this topic.

To learn more about our data sources and methodologies, please see the Data Dashboard for Aging - About the Data Technical Guide.

• Healthy People 2030: Housing Instability
• AARP Public Policy Institute
• AARP Livability Index
• Defining Housing Affordability (HUD)
• Information for Senior Citizens (HUD)
• Rental Assistance (HUD)
• Housing Assistance Programs: Income Limits (HCD)
• Affordable Housing Rental Directory (HCD)
• Building Blocks: Housing Needs – Seniors (HCD)
• Determine the Best Housing Option for Me (CDA)
• Housing Needs Dashboard (California Housing Partnership)
• Affordable Housing Map & Benefits Calculator (California Housing Partnership)